Panko Crusted Parmesan Drumsticks

When that craving for something crispy, crunchy, and fried hits, what's a girl to do? I have little self-control when it comes to anything fried, so after indulging, regret usually sets in and I wish I had something healthy instead - like a salad! Isn't it funny how that works? In order to want something healthy, I have to eat something not so healthy. I guess it's my way of saying sorry to my body? Hahaha! Anyway, fried-anything is horrible to eat, unless you use healthy fats to fry with, such as coconut oil, but I have yet to go to those lengths, so on to the next best thing - baked!

Here's an easy recipe that will allow you to cure your fried chicken cravings; they may not be saturated in all that deliciously yummy fat and oil, but that's the goal, right! Since these are a healthier option, help yourself to as many pieces as you want, without the guilt.

If you're not familiar with panko, they are japanese-style breadcrumbs that are light and airy because they are made from bread without crusts. They remain crisper longer because they don't absorb a lot of grease. That is why they are also great for deep frying.

So, the fun part - let's dive into the recipe! I'm getting hungry just typing this (I think it's time for lunch)! Thankfully I have these in my refrigerator from last night. These are great for re-baking because they will crisp back up in a few minutes. So, a big batch and leftovers is a good thing!

Panko Crusted Parmesan Drumsticks

Author: Hello Lovely Living

Published June 9, 2015

Servings: 5

Prep: 15 mins

Cook:
45 mins

Total time: 1 hr

Ingredients

10 chicken drumsticks

2 eggs

2 Tbs water

2 cups panko breadcrumbs

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp sea salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

4 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese

Olive oil

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°. Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and set aside.

Place the eggs and water into a flat dish and beat until well combined.

Place all dry ingredients into a flat dish and mix well.

Individually coat drumsticks with egg mixture, then with dry mix and press firmly to help it stick. Coat drumsticks a second time with egg mixture, then dry mixture. Set on the prepared baking sheet.

Evenly drizzle olive oil over top. Bake for 30-45 minutes. Watch closely after 30 minutes as the crust will start to brown. Remove once it is golden brown.

Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve immediately.

Enjoy with a side salad and brown rice!

I hope you get to try this recipe - it's so simple to make. Set it and forget it. I love baking because it's so effortless and all of those delicious flavors get concentrated into the food. There's also less cleanup to do - who doesn't love that! If you want to pair this with a salad, try my Japanese Salad Dressing inspired by a favorite restaurant of mine back home (seen in the photo). It tastes utterly delicious paired with this recipe. To happy tummies everywhere! Enjoy : )